I am currently employed in the position of Park Aid/Day Security at Hearst Castle, and it has been “interesting” to hear and read the comments regarding the changes that have been recently implemented at this truly amazing location.

It seems to me that the focus should be on how these changes affect our visitors and not opinions from people who possibly have not even been to the castle since the new process has been implemented. In light of all the negative press, I wanted to say from an objective viewpoint that I personally have had more than a dozen unsolicited comments from visitors telling me how much they enjoy the freedom to walk around the grounds and to be able to absorb the gardens and the artistic treasures at their leisure. The new program also has our experienced, informative tour guides stationed at various, strategic locations in order to answer any questions from visitors as they stroll around the premises, which seems to personalize the experience outside of the group tour.

I can only hope that we can put any differences aside, so that we may continue to help our guests enjoy their visit to Hearst Castle.